Instead of repeatedly using the phrase “I just wanted to follow up,” you can vary your wording to sound more polished and considerate.
These alternatives will help you maintain professionalism while sounding thoughtful and effective in your communication. Following up professionally is an important skill, but it’s essential to find the right way to phrase your request so that it’s respectful and clear. In this article, you’ll find 35 alternative ways to express the same idea whether you’re reminding someone of a task, seeking an update, or checking in on a project.
What Does “I Just Wanted to Follow Up” Mean?
This phrase politely expresses a reminder or request for an update on a previous conversation, email, or request without assuming the recipient missed your first message.
When to Use “I Just Wanted to Follow Up”
Use this phrase when enough time has passed since your original message is typically one to two days for time-sensitive topics or around a week for standard requests.
Is It Professional/Polite to Say “I Just Wanted to Follow Up”?
Yes, it’s both professional and polite. However, using alternative phrases can add variety, demonstrating both patience and respect for the recipient’s time.
Pros and Cons of “I Just Wanted to Follow Up”
Pros:
- Polite and non-intrusive reminder
- Shows initiative and follow-through
Cons:
- Can seem repetitive or formulaic if used frequently
- Risk of coming across as impatient if not phrased carefully
I Just Wanted to Follow Up Synonyms:
- I’m Checking In Regarding
- Just Touching Base on
- Have You Had a Chance to Review?
- Following Up as Discussed
- Quick Reminder About
- Just a Gentle Nudge Regarding
- Circling Back on
- Following Up to Ensure
- Just wanted to Check on the Status of
- I’d Like to Revisit Our Conversation on
- Checking If There’s Been Any Progress on
- Can I Offer Any Additional Assistance With?
- I’m Here to Check In on the Progress of
- I’m Available to Discuss the Status of
- Just wanted to Confirm We’re Aligned on
- I’d Appreciate an Update on
- Are There Any New Developments?
- I Just Wanted to Touch Base About
- I’m Reaching Out to See If There’s Anything New on
- Could You Let Me Know Where We Stand?
- I’d Like to Follow Up on Our Previous Discussion Regarding
- Any Updates on the Status?
- I’d Love to Hear Any Progress on
- I’m Following Up to See If There’s Been Any Movement on
- Would You Mind Providing an Update on this?
- I’m Eager to Hear How Things Are Progressing on
- If There’s an Update on This, I’d Love to Know
- Checking In to See If There’s Been Any Progress
- Is There an Update You Could Share?
- Would It Be Possible to Get an Update on this?
- Hoping to Hear About Any Recent Developments on
- Just Wanted to See if We’re Making Progress on
- Looking Forward to Any New Updates You Might Have
- I’m Here if There’s Anything New to Share on
- Wondering If There’s Any News Regarding
I’m Checking In Regarding
Meaning:
A gentle inquiry about the status of a previous message.
Explanation:
This phrase conveys your interest in any updates on a previous topic without implying a delay on the recipient’s part.
Example:
“I’m checking in regarding the project proposal I sent last week.”
Best Use:
Useful for ongoing projects or longer-term deadlines.
Worst Use:
Avoid immediate responses or urgent tasks.
Tone:
Friendly and proactive.
Just Touching Base on
Meaning:
A subtle way to reach out and reconnect on an ongoing matter.
Explanation:
This phrase maintains a light tone, making it ideal for situations where you’re staying updated on a longer-term or low-priority project.
Example:
“Just touching base on the report; let me know if you need further input.”
Best Use:
For collaborative projects where updates are welcomed but not pressing.
Worst Use:
This should be avoided for formal or high-stakes communication.
Tone:
Casual and collegial.
Have You Had a Chance to Review?
Meaning:
A courteous reminder regarding something previously sent.
Explanation:
This question implies patience, acknowledging that the recipient may need time to review without pressuring them.
Example:
“Have you had a chance to review the document I sent over?”
Best Use:
For proposals, drafts, or files requiring feedback.
Worst Use:
Avoid if an urgent response is needed.
Tone:
Respectful and gentle.
Following Up as Discussed
Meaning:
A follow-up as per a prior arrangement or conversation.
Explanation:
This phrase subtly reminds the recipient of your prior discussion, giving context for the follow-up.
Example:
“Following up as discussed in our last meeting regarding the timeline.”
Best Use:
When you previously agreed to reconnect on the topic.
Worst Use:
Not ideal for an unexpected follow-up.
Tone:
Professional and straightforward.
Quick Reminder About
Meaning:
A short, polite prompt to bring something to the recipient’s attention.
Explanation:
This phrase is non-intrusive and helps the recipient remember without pressuring them for a response.
Example:
“Quick reminder about the project deadlines.”
Best Use:
For deadlines or minor updates.
Worst Use:
Avoid if the recipient may feel rushed.
Tone:
Light and courteous.
Just a Gentle Nudge Regarding
Meaning:
A friendly reminder, perfect for keeping communication light.
Explanation:
The phrase feels softer and more understanding, as it suggests you’re not rushing the recipient.
Example:
“Just a gentle nudge regarding the event planning update.”
Best Use:
For friendly relationships or low-pressure follow-ups.
Worst Use:
In formal or high-stakes situations.
Tone:
Casual and considerate.
Circling Back on
Meaning:
A phrase to bring a previous conversation or task back into focus.
Explanation:
This phrase implies continuity, making it suitable for topics you’ve discussed before.
Example:
“I’m circling back on the software updates we discussed.”
Best Use:
For previously discussed projects or updates.
Worst Use:
Not ideal for brand-new inquiries.
Tone:
Professional and approachable.
Following Up to Ensure
Meaning:
Checking on progress to confirm alignment on a topic or project.
Explanation:
This phrase shows that you’re staying engaged without directly asking for a response.
Example:
“Following up to ensure we’re still on track with the budget review.”
Best Use:
For ongoing projects where consistency is essential.
Worst Use:
Avoid new conversations.
Tone:
Professional and collaborative.
Just wanted to Check on the Status of
Meaning:
A straightforward inquiry about progress on an ongoing topic.
Explanation:
This phrase is respectful and simple, providing a gentle reminder without urgency.
Example:
“Just wanted to check on the status of the report submission.”
Best Use:
For projects with known progress timelines.
Worst Use:
Not ideal for urgent matters.
Tone:
Neutral and polite.
I’d Like to Revisit Our Conversation on
Meaning:
Bringing up a previous conversation or topic for reconsideration.
Explanation:
This phrase subtly shifts the focus back to the topic at hand, encouraging an update.
Example:
“I’d like to revisit our conversation on budget allocations for the project.”
Best Use:
For long-term discussions that benefit from periodic revisits.
Worst Use:
In high-priority tasks with immediate needs.
Tone:
Thoughtful and reflective.
Checking If There’s Been Any Progress on
Meaning:
Inquiring about advancements without setting a high expectation.
Explanation:
This phrase implies patience and understanding, suitable for topics requiring time.
Example:
“Checking if there’s been any progress on the marketing campaign strategy.”
Best Use:
For projects with flexible timelines.
Worst Use:
Avoid tasks with specific deadlines.
Tone:
Polite and unobtrusive.
Can I Offer Any Additional Assistance With?
Meaning:
Offering help to support the process while inquiring indirectly.
Explanation:
This phrase shows your willingness to help, suggesting you’re invested in progress.
Example:
“Can I offer any additional assistance with the client onboarding process?”
Best Use:
When collaboration may improve outcomes.
Worst Use:
If assistance isn’t required.
Tone:
Helpful and cooperative.
I’m Here to Check In on the Progress of
Meaning:
A polite way to inquire about an update, showing that you’re attentive and available.
Explanation:
This phrase indicates you’re present and engaged, without pressuring the recipient.
Example:
“I’m here to check in on the progress of the training module updates.”
Best Use:
For friendly, ongoing communications where updates aren’t urgent.
Worst Use:
In very formal or time-sensitive matters.
Tone:
Friendly and supportive.
I’m Available to Discuss the Status of
Meaning:
Communicate that you’re open to hearing about progress whenever the recipient is ready.
Explanation:
This phrasing allows the other person to initiate, showing patience and understanding.
Example:
“I’m available to discuss the status of the quarterly review whenever convenient.”
Best Use:
When the recipient may need flexibility in responding.
Worst Use:
For immediate or high-priority updates.
Tone:
Open and accommodating.
Just wanted to Confirm We’re Aligned on
Meaning:
Verifies that both parties are on the same page without directly asking for a progress update.
Explanation:
This phrase serves as a check-in, confirming that expectations are clear and any next steps are understood.
Example:
“Just wanted to confirm we’re aligned on the project deliverables.”
Best Use:
For team projects or collaborative tasks.
Worst Use:
Avoid when updates are urgently needed.
Tone:
Professional and assuring.
I’d Appreciate an Update on
Meaning:
A respectful way to request an update, highlighting your interest and appreciation.
Explanation:
This phrase is polite and demonstrates your willingness to wait for feedback.
Example:
“I’d appreciate an update on the client proposal review process.”
Best Use:
For situations where the recipient may need encouragement to respond.
Worst Use:
When you’ve recently followed up.
Tone:
Appreciative and respectful.
Are There Any New Developments?
Meaning:
An inquiry about potential progress or changes without assuming any delay.
Explanation:
This question acknowledges that updates may not always be immediate but invite any new information.
Example:
“Are there any new developments on the project timeline?”
Best Use:
For ongoing projects where gradual updates are expected.
Worst Use:
Avoid tasks needing immediate answers.
Tone:
Open-ended and curious.
I Just Wanted to Touch Base About
Meaning:
A gentle check-in, suitable for non-urgent updates.
Explanation:
This phrase shows a casual interest in staying informed without a strict expectation for updates.
Example:
“I just wanted to touch base about the event planning details.”
Best Use:
For longer-term projects or informal updates.
Worst Use:
Not ideal for formal communications or pressing matters.
Tone:
Friendly and easygoing.
I’m Reaching Out to See If There’s Anything New on
Meaning:
A phrase that respectfully inquires if there’s anything new to report.
Explanation:
This is a considerate way of asking for an update, implying that new information is optional but appreciated.
Example:
“I’m reaching out to see if there’s anything new on the budget review.”
Best Use:
For projects where updates may or may not be available yet.
Worst Use:
In fast-paced, urgent settings.
Tone:
Respectful and understanding.
Could You Let Me Know Where We Stand?
Meaning:
A clear yet polite way to ask for an update on a shared goal.
Explanation:
This phrase is straightforward but courteous, showing interest in current progress.
Example:
“Could you let me know where we stand on the vendor selection process?”
Best Use:
For projects with multiple stakeholders where transparency is helpful.
Worst Use:
Avoid highly formal situations.
Tone:
Neutral and direct.
I’d Like to Follow Up on Our Previous Discussion Regarding
Meaning:
Bring up a prior conversation, inviting updates while showing attentiveness.
Explanation:
This phrase subtly references an earlier discussion, providing context for the follow-up.
Example:
“I’d like to follow up on our previous discussion regarding the product launch timeline.”
Best Use:
For follow-ups where clear context is helpful.
Worst Use:
If the prior discussion is still fresh.
Tone:
Polite and considerate.
Any Updates on the Status?
Meaning:
A short, polite question about progress on a specific topic.
Explanation:
This phrase is informal and unassuming, implying interest but without urgency.
Example:
“Any updates on the status of the new hire?”
Best Use:
For simple or ongoing updates.
Worst Use:
In formal or high-priority.
Tone:
Friendly and straightforward.
I’d Love to Hear Any Progress on
Meaning:
Shows enthusiasm for any updates, adding a positive tone.
Explanation:
This phrase expresses genuine interest, making it a friendly choice for ongoing collaboration.
Example:
“I’d love to hear any progress on the marketing initiatives.”
Best Use:
In informal, collaborative settings.
Worst Use:
When deadlines are strict.
Tone:
Positive and encouraging.
I’m Following Up to See If There’s Been Any Movement on
Meaning:
Politely checks for any advancements in an ongoing process.
Explanation:
This phrase works well for projects where progress might be slow, signaling patience.
Example:
“I’m following up to see if there’s been any movement on the partnership discussion.”
Best Use:
For long-term goals or projects.
Worst Use:
In urgent situations needing immediate answers.
Tone:
Polite and patient.
Would You Mind Providing an Update on this?
Meaning:
A respectful way to request an update with a positive tone.
Explanation:
This phrase is courteous and acknowledges that the recipient’s time is valuable.
Example:
“Would you mind providing an update on the project milestones?”
Best Use:
For professional, respectful follow-ups.
Worst Use:
Avoid when multiple follow-ups have already been made.
Tone:
Courteous and professional.
I’m Eager to Hear How Things Are Progressing on
Meaning:
Expresses enthusiasm for any developments, adding warmth to the follow-up.
Explanation:
This phrase is positive and shows you’re genuinely invested in the outcome.
Example:
“I’m eager to hear how things are progressing on the conference planning.”
Best Use:
For friendly, collaborative relationships.
Worst Use:
Avoid very formal settings.
Tone:
Warm and encouraging.
If There’s an Update on This, I’d Love to Know
Meaning:
Politely expresses interest in any recent changes or progress.
Explanation:
This phrase subtly communicates that you’re open to an update without pressuring the recipient.
Example:
“If there’s an update on this, I’d love to know about the team’s schedule.”
Best Use:
When you’re flexible and can wait for feedback.
Worst Use:
In time-sensitive situations.
Tone:
Warm and considerate.
Checking In to See If There’s Been Any Progress
Meaning:
A polite follow-up that conveys interest in knowing if things have moved forward.
Explanation:
This phrase is informal and casual, which makes it suitable for friendly work settings.
Example:
“I’m just checking in to see if there’s been any progress on the budget approval.”
Best Use:
For ongoing tasks or collaborative projects.
Worst Use:
Avoid when dealing with highly formal or urgent matters.
Tone:
Friendly and conversational.
Is There an Update You Could Share?
Meaning:
Ask for any available updates in a polite and open-ended way.
Explanation:
This phrase implies that any information is welcome and respects the recipient’s timeline.
Example:
“Is there an update you could share on the proposal revisions?”
Best Use:
For projects where occasional updates are sufficient.
Worst Use:
When you need immediate answers.
Tone:
Respectful and open.
Would It Be Possible to Get an Update on this?
Meaning:
A polite way to inquire about progress, offering the recipient flexibility.
Explanation:
This phrasing is gentle and considerate, acknowledging that an update might not be readily available.
Example:
“Would it be possible to get an update on the shipment schedule?”
Best Use:
For non-urgent projects where flexibility is appreciated.
Worst Use:
In time-sensitive matters.
Tone:
Courteous and understanding.
Hoping to Hear About Any Recent Developments on
Meaning:
A warm and friendly way to express interest in updates.
Explanation:
This phrase conveys eagerness while respecting the recipient’s timeline.
Example:
“I’m hoping to hear about any recent developments on the strategic partnership.”
Best Use:
When you’re genuinely interested but patient for updates.
Worst Use:
Avoid highly formal situations.
Tone:
Warm and enthusiastic.
Just Wanted to See if We’re Making Progress on
Meaning:
An informal follow-up that checks on progress without pressure.
Explanation:
This phrase is ideal for casual updates where no immediate response is necessary.
Example:
“Just wanted to see if we’re making progress on the hiring process.”
Best Use:
For team projects or collaborative environments.
Worst Use:
In highly formal or deadline-sensitive situations.
Tone:
Casual and friendly.
Looking Forward to Any New Updates You Might Have
Meaning:
A friendly way to show openness to updates whenever available.
Explanation:
This phrase doesn’t require immediate action, creating a sense of flexibility.
Example:
“Looking forward to any new updates you might have on the project details.”
Best Use:
For ongoing updates on long-term projects.
Worst Use:
When a quick update is necessary.
Tone:
Friendly and accommodating.
I’m Here if There’s Anything New to Share on
Meaning:
Shows you’re available and interested without directly asking for updates.
Explanation:
This phrasing allows the recipient to provide updates at their convenience.
Example:
“I’m here if there’s anything new to share on the client feedback.”
Best Use:
For relaxed or informal follow-ups.
Worst Use:
When quick responses are needed.
Tone:
Friendly and low-pressure.
Wondering If There’s Any News Regarding
Meaning:
Gently checks for any recent developments or updates.
Explanation:
This phrase is polite and open, implying that any news would be appreciated.
Example:
“I’m wondering if there’s any news regarding the project budget approval.”
Best Use:
When periodic updates are sufficient.
Worst Use:
In urgent or time-sensitive contexts.
Tone:
Open and polite.
Conclusion
Whether you’re seeking updates on a project, awaiting feedback, or simply trying to stay in the loop, finding the right words is essential. Using thoughtful, professional phrases can strengthen relationships, show respect, and courteously convey your eagerness. With these 35 professional alternatives, you can approach follow-ups in a way that resonates with your communication style and the situation’s needs.
By choosing the right expression, you’ll help maintain smooth communication and ensure all parties feel respected and informed.